Environmental Consequences of Industrial Legacy in the City of Mitrovica
Session
Agriculture, Food Science and Technology
Description
The city of Mitrovica, a historically significant industrial center in the Western Balkans, has long been affected by the environmental consequences of mining and heavy metal processing activities, particularly during the Yugoslav era. This paper examines the long-term environmental impacts resulting from this industrial legacy, focusing on air, water, and soil contamination, as well as the associated public health and ecological consequences. The study examines the environmental footprint of this heavy industry and the shift in land use in the former industrial areas, while it integrates fielata, literature review, and qualitative input from local communities and experts. Findings indicate elevated levels of heavy metals such as lead, zinc, and cadmium in soil and water, with significant risks to agriculture, water resources, and human health. Institutional challenges and the lack of systematic rehabilitation measures further exacerbate environmental degradation. The paper concludes by proposing evidence-based recommendations for remediation, environmental governance, and community engagement in Mitrovica’s ecological recovery.
Keywords:
Industrial legacy, environmental pollution, Mitrovica, heavy metals, ecological degradation, remediation, public
Proceedings Editor
Edmond Hajrizi
ISBN
978-9951-982-41-2
Location
UBT Lipjan, Kosovo
Start Date
25-10-2025 9:00 AM
End Date
26-10-2025 6:00 PM
DOI
10.33107/ubt-ic.2025.168
Recommended Citation
Veseli, Besar; Ahmeti, Shqiprim; Sofiu, Vehebi; and Gashi, Sami, "Environmental Consequences of Industrial Legacy in the City of Mitrovica" (2025). UBT International Conference. 13.
https://knowledgecenter.ubt-uni.net/conference/2025UBTIC/AFCT/13
Environmental Consequences of Industrial Legacy in the City of Mitrovica
UBT Lipjan, Kosovo
The city of Mitrovica, a historically significant industrial center in the Western Balkans, has long been affected by the environmental consequences of mining and heavy metal processing activities, particularly during the Yugoslav era. This paper examines the long-term environmental impacts resulting from this industrial legacy, focusing on air, water, and soil contamination, as well as the associated public health and ecological consequences. The study examines the environmental footprint of this heavy industry and the shift in land use in the former industrial areas, while it integrates fielata, literature review, and qualitative input from local communities and experts. Findings indicate elevated levels of heavy metals such as lead, zinc, and cadmium in soil and water, with significant risks to agriculture, water resources, and human health. Institutional challenges and the lack of systematic rehabilitation measures further exacerbate environmental degradation. The paper concludes by proposing evidence-based recommendations for remediation, environmental governance, and community engagement in Mitrovica’s ecological recovery.